If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s bursting with savory, cheesy goodness, the Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Recipe is an absolute must-try. These little bites marry the rich, buttery flavors of the famous Cheddar Bay Biscuits with hearty sausage and creamy cheese, creating a warm, irresistible snack that’s perfect for parties, family dinners, or just treating yourself. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they’re seriously addictive and so simple to make, you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are basic, but each plays a crucial role in building those perfect textures and flavors. From the signature biscuit mix to the creamy cheesiness of the cream cheese and shredded cheddar, every element works together in harmony.
- Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix, 11.36 oz: This is the backbone of the sausage balls, providing that iconic buttery garlic flavor.
- Cream cheese, 8 oz softened: Adds a smooth and creamy texture that blends everything together beautifully.
- Shredded cheddar cheese, 1 1/4 cups: Brings the sharp, cheesy punch that defines these sausage balls.
- Uncooked sausage, 1 pound: The hearty protein that adds savory depth and moisture to the bites.
How to Make Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your sausage balls will bake evenly and won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Combine Biscuit Mix
Grab your Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix, including that flavorful seasoning packet—it’s essential as it’s what brings the buttery garlic punch that sets these apart. Place the mix in a large bowl and get ready to add your other ingredients.
Step 3: Smooth Cream Cheese
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy. This will help it blend seamlessly with the sausage and biscuit mix.
Step 4: Mix Sausage and Cheeses
Add the uncooked sausage into the cream cheese and mix thoroughly, making sure the sausage is well coated. Then introduce the biscuit mix and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until you get a uniform, sticky dough. Trust me, it’s gooey and satisfying!
Step 5: Shape the Sausage Balls
Using your hands or a small spoon, portion the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls. Place them onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each to allow for even cooking.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the sausage balls for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on the outside and fully cooked inside. The aroma while baking will have your whole kitchen drooling!
How to Serve Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra crunch and color, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving. You can also offer a side of tangy ranch or spicy mustard dipping sauce to elevate the flavors and add a creamy, zesty contrast.
Side Dishes
These sausage balls go wonderfully alongside fresh garden salads or crunchy vegetable sticks to balance their richness. For a heartier meal, serve them with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery green beans for a comforting Southern-inspired feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Recipe delights on a wooden charcuterie board paired with assorted cheeses and olives for a sophisticated appetizer spread. Alternatively, stack them on a tiered platter for parties, garnished with colorful herbs and spice blends to impress your guests visually and flavor-wise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They stay moist and flavorful but do note the exterior may soften a little.
Freezing
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls freeze beautifully. After baking and cooling completely, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months, making them a convenient ready-to-bake snack anytime.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated sausage balls in a 350-degree oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This helps restore their crispy exterior, unlike microwaving which can make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! You can swap pork sausage for turkey or chicken sausage if you want a leaner option. Just be mindful of seasoning, as some types may be less flavorful.
Is it possible to make these sausage balls gluten-free?
The key biscuit mix contains gluten, but you can find or make a gluten-free cheddar biscuit mix to substitute. Just ensure it’s a mix designed for baking to keep the right texture.
How spicy are these sausage balls?
The classic Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Recipe is not spicy, but you can easily add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat.
Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
You sure can! Mix everything up, shape the balls, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes prep super easy on party day.
What if I don’t have parchment paper?
No worries! You can lightly grease your baking sheet with oil or butter to prevent sticking, though parchment is preferred for less mess.
Final Thoughts
The Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Recipe is one of those comfort foods that feels like a warm hug every time you bite into it. It’s simple, quick, and endlessly satisfying, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to something special. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite snack!
Print
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 15 sausage balls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a savory and irresistible appetizer featuring juicy sausage combined with buttery garlic cheddar biscuit mix and creamy cheese. Perfectly baked until golden brown, these bite-sized treats deliver a flavorful punch with every bite, making them ideal for parties, game days, or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 11.36 oz Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix (including seasoning packet)
- 1 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 pound uncooked sausage
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Combine Biscuit Mix: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Cheddar Bay biscuit mix along with the included seasoning packet; this seasoning imparts the signature buttery garlic flavor.
- Smooth Cream Cheese: Soften the cream cheese thoroughly and mix it until smooth and creamy to ensure it blends well with the other ingredients.
- Mix Sausage and Cheese: Add the uncooked sausage into the cream cheese and mix until well combined. Then incorporate the biscuit mix and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the mixture is uniform and cohesive.
- Form Sausage Balls: Portion the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls using your hands, then place each ball onto the prepared baking sheet spaced evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the sausage balls turn golden brown and the sausage inside is fully cooked through.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Using parchment paper or a silicone liner will help prevent the sausage balls from sticking to the baking sheet.
- Check internal temperature to ensure sausage is cooked to 160°F for safety.
- Feel free to add herbs like parsley or garlic powder for extra flavor if desired.
- These sausage balls can be made ahead and reheated in the oven before serving.
